Serum iron, Magnesium, Copper, and Manganese Levels in Alcoholism: A Systematic Review

Abstract

The aim of this paper was to review recent literature (from 2000 onwards) and summarize the newest findings on fluctuations in the concentration of some essential macro- and microelements in those patients with a history of chronic alcohol abuse. The focus was mainly on four elements which the authors found of particular interest: Iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese. After independently reviewing over 50 articles, the results were consistent with regard to iron and magnesium. On the other hand, data were limited, and in some cases contradictory, as far as copper and manganese were concerned. Iron overload and magnesium deficiency are two common results of an excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol. An increase in the levels of iron can be seen both in the serum and within the cells, hepatocytes in particular. This is due to a number of factors: Increased ferritin levels, lower hepcidin levels, as well as some fluctuations in the concentration of the TfR receptor for transferrin, among others. Hypomagnesemia is universally observed among those suffering from alcoholism. Again, the causes for this are numerous and include malnutrition, drug abuse, respiratory alkalosis, and gastrointestinal problems, apart from the direct influence of excessive alcohol intake. Unfortunately, studies regarding the levels of both copper and manganese in the case of (alcoholic) liver disease are scarce and often contradictory. Still, the authors have attempted to summarize and give a thorough insight into the literature available, bearing in mind the difficulties involved in the studies. Frequent comorbidities and mutual relationships between the elements in question are just some of the complications in the study of this topic.

Iron Status and Cancer Risk in UK Biobank: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study

“…A recent review indicated that iron overload was a common consequence of an excessive and prolonged consumption of alcohol. An increased level of iron was observed in both serum and within cells, hepatocytes in particular [30]. Furthermore, a dose-response relationship has been observed between alcohol consumption and liver cancer [31].…”

Vitamins and Minerals for Energy, Fatigue and Cognition: A Narrative Review of the Biochemical and Clinical Evidence

“…In a review of observational studies comparing magnesium status in a total of 559 subjects suffering from Alzheimer disease, a lower magnesium concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid was found, when compared with 381 healthy matched controls [186]. Hypomagnesaemia has also been associated with other types of neural dysfunction, possibly including those observed in alcoholism [187]. Indeed, magnesium is known to reduce the intensity of addiction to alcohol and other substances and alcohol abusers have lower plasma and intracellular magnesium concentrations, compared with healthy subjects [188].…”

Correlations Between Trace Elements in Selected Locations of the Human Brain in Individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder

“…Trace element distribution varies in different types of human tissue [1][2][3], as well as in different locations of the human brain. Several elements were found to have negative properties [4], inducing oxidative stress processes, and thus neurodegeneration [5][6][7]. The homeostasis of biometals is well regulated in healthy human brains and improper function of these systems may cause dysfunction of physiological brain processes [8].…”